Portuguese club FC Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi has been excused from first-team training after picking up a knock while on international duty with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Reports from Portugal reveal that the left-back sustained a minor injury during Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying game against the Benin Republic, prompting Porto’s medical staff to place him on a short recovery plan.
Sanusi was part of the Super Eagles squad that played the last game and was taken off in a stretcher in the second half, but his club has opted for caution upon his return to Portugal.
In preparation for their matchup with Celoricense in the third round of the Portuguese Cup, Porto’s first team started training on Thursday at the Jorge Costa Sports Training Centre in Olival; however, Zaidu was excused from the practice.
After his lengthy journey from Africa, the Nigerian international defender was granted time off to rest and recuperate, according to Portuguese daily A Bola.
Before choosing whether to include Zaidu in the forthcoming cup match, manager Francesco Farioli is expected to evaluate his fitness during Friday’s last practice.
While initial assessments suggest the injury is not serious, Porto are monitoring the situation closely to avoid aggravation ahead of crucial Primeira Liga and Champions League fixtures.
